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Public Memorial for Gun Violence Victims at Echo Lake Park, December 14

Union County, NJ – The public is invited to join with the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America to honor the memory of the 26 children and adults who were murdered in a single act of gun violence at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut in 2012.

The memorial ceremony will take place on Friday, December 14, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Gazebo in Union County’s Echo Lake Park, off Route 22 in Mountainside.

“In paying our respects to the victims of this horrible crime, we renew our commitment to push for common sense national policies that stop the spread of deadly weapons in our communities,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “I encourage everyone who is concerned about gun violence to join us in a message of peace and hope for the future.”

As part of Chairman Granados’s “Moving Union County Forward” initiatives for 2018, the Freeholder Board has partnered with Moms Demand Action to advocate for common sense gun reforms.

Last April, the Freeholder Board joined Moms Demand Action and the mayors of 14 Union County municipalities to sign a Statement of Principles in support of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns campaign.

Moms Demand Action was founded by stay-at-home mom, Shannon Watts, on December 15, 2012, in response to the murders at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

The organization quickly flourished into a leading force for gun violence prevention as part of the Everytown for Gun Safety Network. With grassroots chapters in all 50 states, Moms Demand Action has successfully effected change at the local, state and national level.

To join the New Jersey chapter, email pficoucmoms@gmail.com. For more information about the national Moms Demand Action organization visit momsdemandaction.org.

For more information about the December 14 event contact Nathalie Hernandez, Coordinator, Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity at nahernandez@ucnj.org or 908-527-4880.

The Office of Community Engagement and Diversity is part of Chairman Granados’s “Moving Union County Forward” initiative for individual empowerment, education and community service. More information about the office is available at ucnj.org.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Route 35 resurfacing project begins between Middlesex and Union Counties

Overnight lane and ramp closures necessary

(Trenton) – New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today announced the start of a resurfacing project that will require overnight shoulder, lane and ramp closures along an eight-mile segment of Route 35 in Sayreville, Perth Amboy, Woodbridge and Rahway.

Beginning at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 27, until 6 a.m. the next day, and continuing overnight for several weeks, NJDOT’s contractor, Schifano Construction Corp. is scheduled to close shoulders and lanes on Route 35 in both directions, between Route 9 in Sayreville (Middlesex County) and Colonia Boulevard/Lincoln Highway in Rahway (Union County) for milling and paving. The overnight resurfacing will occur during the week and maintain one lane of traffic in each direction at all times.

Route 35 overnight lane closure schedule: (not including weekends)

  • Mondays through Thursdays from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the next day
  • Fridays from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. the next day

No two consecutive ramps will be closed simultaneously, to help accommodate detours. Detours will be coordinated with state police. If work is completed earlier, the roadway will be reopened accordingly.

The State-funded Route 35 maintenance-repaving project will resurface approximately eight miles of Route 35 in both directions between Middlesex and Union Counties. Repaving is expected to be completed by the end of December 2018.

Variable message signs and detour signs are being utilized throughout the project limits to provide advance notification to motorists of all traffic pattern changes associated with the resurfacing project.

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on Twitter @NJDOT_info.

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Union County Brings Interactive, Sensory-Friendly Bubble Show to Rahway on Sunday, January 27

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to bring a sensory-friendly performance of the dynamic, highly interactive and uniquely funny Bubble Trouble to the stage at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway on Sunday, January 27 at 2:00 p.m.

“The Freeholder Board is proud to present the sensory-friendly performance series, which is specially designed to increase access to the arts and provide opportunities for individuals of all abilities to experience the wonders of science in an inclusive and welcoming environment,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados.

A bubble volcano. Bubble roller coaster. A kid in a bubble? Jeff Boyer takes bubbles to the max in this one-man bubble extravaganza. It’s the craziest, most creative bubble show around. Jeff juggles bubbles, sculpts and builds with bubbles, makes fog-filled bubbles and more. Mixing comedy, music and a unique level of community participation, he engages and delights audiences of all ages.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series began in 2012 as an initiative of Freeholder Alexander Mirabella. It is designed according to guidelines that help reduce disturbances for children who experience heightened sensory sensitivity. It has been supported by the Freeholder Board every year since then.

For each of the Sensory Friendly performances, the environment at the Union County Performing Arts Center is adjusted to provide a sensory-friendly, comfortable and judgment-free space that is welcoming for all families.

Autism Friendly Spaces implements the supportive atmosphere at performance. For more information on what to expect at a Sensory Friendly Theatre performance, visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

All tickets are $8.00 per person and can be purchased through the Union County Performing Arts Center at ucpac.org or by calling the Box Office at 732-499-8226.

The Union County Performing Arts Center and box office are located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

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Conserve Wildlife Foundation Presents Peregrine Falcon Talk at Trailside, Dec. 1 

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce a free peregrine falcon presentation on Saturday, December 1 at 2:00 pm for families with children ages 7 and older at the Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside.

Stephanie D’Alessio, Director of Education for Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey will help those in attendance explore the life of the fascinating birds. She will explain how to access the Union County Falcon cam that provides a live stream in and around the peregrine falcon nest in Elizabeth. The program is free but donations are welcome.

The live stream is free to the public on the Union County website, at ucnj.org/falcon.

Peregrine falcons are listed as an endangered species in New Jersey, and Union County has been part of ongoing efforts to ensure the survival of these remarkable birds statewide. They are known for their rapid dives, which can approach an astounding 200 miles an hour as they move in on their prey.  

The Falcon Cam is a wonderful opportunity to observe and study one of nature’s most fierce and fascinating creatures. It provides an enriching experience for County residents of all ages, and for online visitors from all over the world. 

“The live feed helps to build an appreciation for the role that we can all play in preserving our natural heritage, both in our parks and in the urban environment.” says Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados.  

Union County’s falcon preservation efforts have been undertaken with the generous assistance of wildlife experts from New Jersey DEP and the nonprofit Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.

The Conserve Wildlife Foundation is Union County’s official partner for educational programming related to falcons and the Falcon Cam. Stephanie D’Alessio, Director of Education for Conserve Wildlife Foundation, explores the life of these fascinating birds.

Visit ucnj.org/trailside to register for the program or call 908-789-3670 for additional information about this activity and other upcoming events at Trailside.

Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a facility of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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How to Recognize Women of Excellence in Union County

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders reminds residents, business owners and non-profit managers to submit nominations for the 27th annual Women of Excellence awards. The submission deadline is December 3rd. The awards celebrate women who have made a powerful impact on life in Union County.

“Today it is more important than ever to raise awareness about the influence of women in every sphere of the Union County community, from business and legal affairs to public service, education and much more,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “These awards recognize the contributions made by women who inspire, lead, serve, and in so doing, make a positive difference in the quality of life for everyone in Union County.”

Women can be nominated for their achievements in the fields of Arts and Humanities, Business and Entrepreneurial, Community Service, Education, Government, Law, Law Enforcement, Medicine and Health Care and Child, Youth and Women’s Advocacy.

Individuals, businesses, non-profits and government agencies can submit nominations for an award. Nominations are open to all women 21 years or older who live, volunteer or work in Union County.

The awardees will be honored at the annual Women of Excellence gala awards dinner, to be held on March 29, 2019 at the Gran Centurions in Clark.

Each awardee will receive an engraved Women of Excellence plaque and a Freeholder Resolution in their honor recognizing their impact on the Union County community.

The Women of Excellence awards are sponsored by the Freeholder Board and the Union County Commission on the Status of Women, with the Union County Office on Women. 

For the first time this year, Women of Excellence nominations may be submitted online. To submit a Women of Excellence nomination online, visit ucnj.org/women-awards.

Nominations will also continue to be accepted by mail. Mail-in nominations should be sent to the Union County Administration Building, Attn: DHS-Office of Outreach and Advocacy, 2nd Floor, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, NJ 07207.

For any questions about the nomination process or to get more information about the Women of Excellence awards program, contact Elizabeth Sebring, Union County Department of Human Services, at 908-527-4890 or esebring@ucbj.org.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

 

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All Aboard for Holiday Fun

Union County, NJ – Kick off the season’s festivities with a visit to the annual Holiday Sound & Light Show beginning this Friday, November 23 at the A. Paul Mallery Model Railroad Center. The three-week series showcases the Railroad Center’s gigantic HO scale layout along with additional model train displays, holiday decorations, a snack bar, toddler rest area and railroad-themed gift shop. The Railroad Center is conveniently located in Union County’s Lenape Park by Route 22 in Union Township and is run by the non-profit Model Railroad Club with support from the Freeholder Board. For directions and ticket info visit ucnj.org/parks or contact The Model Railroad Club, (908) 964-9724 or info@tmrci.org.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Giving Back, Giving Strength

Union County, NJ – For more than 30 years, Union County residents have gained personal growth through community service as volunteers with the Union County Rape Crisis Center. New volunteers are welcome to join now and receive a free training course that qualifies them to serve with the Rape Crisis Center as confidential advocates for victims of sexual violence.

The Rape Crisis Center began in 1984 as a volunteer program run by the Union County Department of Human Services. Its offices are located at the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County complex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East.

“The Rape Crisis Center helps victims of sexual violence manage a life-changing crisis and restore their sense of empowerment and human dignity,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “By providing this support, our volunteers also find new reservoirs of strength within themselves. It is a program that gives back to the whole community.”

RCC volunteers are often the only peer support available to victims of sexual violence, many of whom cannot turn to family or friends for help.

Using mobile phones, the volunteers run a 24/7 hotline to provide callers with guidance on navigating the medical, legal and emotional aftermath of sexual violence.

Volunteers may also provide in-person support. For example, they may accompany victims to a medical procedure or court appearance.

All RCC volunteers receive a training course that qualifies them as certified Confidential Advocates.

No previous experience in counseling is required. Professional RCC staff and seasoned volunteers provide ongoing support and mentorship for new volunteers.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, Union County residents, and have their own car.

To inquire about the next training course, call the Rape Crisis Center hotline, 908-233-7273. 

Additional information on the volunteer experience is available at the Rape Crisis Center blog, unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Freeholders to Cut Ribbon at the New Warinanco Dog Park on Saturday, December 8th

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders invites County residents to the opening of the Warinanco Dog Park on Saturday December 8th at 1:00 pm. The new dog park is located behind the Warinanco Sports Center located at 1 Park Drive in Warinanco Park, Roselle. The opening is free for county residents along with their dogs to attend.

“This new dog park in the eastern end of the County will complement the existing dog park in western Union County,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “The Freeholder Board is proud to provide this more local option for dog lovers and owners. As a dog lover myself, I am personally excited to see the county continue to flourish and offer residents diverse resources to accommodate their dogs, which like them, are part of Union County.”

The Warinanco Dog Park is a newly constructed public facility. It features separate large and small dog areas. Each area is equipped with agility equipment, dog-waste stations, pet-friendly water fountains and seating for dog owners.  The Warinanco Dog Park will operate on the same schedule as all Union County parks, with access available year-round from dawn to dusk on a daily basis.

 “When Freeholder Sergio Granados became Chairman, I asked to meet with him in January to discuss the option on building a dog park in my hometown,” said Ruby Contreras from the Elizabeth Public Information Office. “We then decided that Warinanco Park was the perfect location as it allows other dog owners from the surrounding towns to come together as well. As a dog mom, I am proud to say that I helped make this happen not only for dogs, but for dog parents everywhere.”

The ribbon-cutting will happen rain or shine. In the event of rain, the ribbon cutting will be held outdoors and remaining activities will be hosted inside of Warinanco Sports Center. The event will include dog treats, dog vendor booths and more.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County Residents Can Plan Ahead for Vote-By-Mail

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi reminds residents that a recent change in state law provides for ballots to be sent automatically to Vote-by-Mail users, unless they have opted out.

Voters who have received a Vote-by-Mail ballot can opt out by completing a form and sending it to the County Clerk. To obtain a downloadable form, visit the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com.

Voters who wish to use a Vote-by-Mail ballot can obtain a downloadable application form at unioncountyvotes.com.

“The Vote-by-Mail application includes different options for receiving your ballots, so please be sure to check off the option that works best for you,” said Ms. Rajoppi.

Voters can find the ballot options on the upper left-hand corner of the application form.

Vote-by-Mail is New Jersey’s form of early voting. Vote-by-Mail ballots are typically available five weeks prior to an election. Any eligible voter may cast a Vote-by-Mail ballot up until 3:00 p.m. the day before an election.

“The turnout for the General Election on Tuesday was very impressive. Overall, close to 60% of eligible voters in Union County cast a ballot, and that is close to number we normally see during Presidential election cycles,” said Ms. Rajoppi.

“It was especially gratifying to see a record setting number of voters use the convenience of Vote-by-Mail to ensure their voices were heard,” Ms. Rajoppi added.

The final tally of Vote-By-Mail ballots in Union County for the General Election on Tuesday, November 6 was 20,642.  The previous record was set in the 2008 presidential election, when the final tally was 14,448.

For more information on voting and elections in Union County, visit the County Clerk’s elections website, unioncountyvotes.com, or download the Union County Votes mobile app.

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Union County Opens New Skate Park in Mattano Park, Elizabeth

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce the opening of a new skate park at Union County’s Mattano Park at 360-484 5th Avenue in the southern corner of Elizabeth.

“The new skate park demonstrates Union County’s commitment to expand its recreational resources and enable more County residents to enjoy the community experience of healthy outdoor activities in a public park,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “This is a great addition to a park that includes turf field, inclusive playground, picnic areas and exercise stations among other features.”

The new skate park is the latest in a recent series of upgrades in Mattano, including new turf athletic fields, a new sprinkler playground, and the County’s first playground created for children with special needs.

“Mattano is truly a people’s park, with something for everyone from all walks of life,” said Freeholder Vice Chairman Bette Jane Kowalski, who chairs the Freeholder Board’s Parks, Public Works and Facilities Committee. “We have had a wonderful experience with our first skate park in Clark, and we are looking forward to seeing how Union County’s skateboard enthusiasts respond to this new opportunity for honing their skills.”

Union County Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados (3rd l.), Vice Chairman Bette Jane Kowalski (2nd l.), and Freeholder Bruce H. Bergen (l.) join with Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage (4th l.) and other local officials, skaters and residents to celebrate the official opening of the new skate park at Union County’s Mattano Park, in Elizabeth. Photo credits: (both photos) Danni Newbury/County of Union.

The Union County parks system encompasses 36 distinct parks offering a wide range of activities including golfing, hiking, swimming, boating, horseback riding, educational programs and much more in addition to many playgrounds, athletic fields and picnic areas.

For more information about activities and programs in Union County parks, visit online at ucnj.org/parks, email parkrequest@ucnj.org or call the Reservation Desk, 908-527-4900.

 

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.